Show does live up to its mega-blockerbuster billing. Coming as one of the hottest anticipated shows in recent history, this story outclasses its predecessor in every way possible. The sheer unique cast of characters amongst the masters and servants, the whirpool of emotions thrown into, the pity for the pitiful characters and victory to the bad ones. The story behind the fateful F/SN was a grand one. As previously anticipated and mentioned, one of the main points of the series was the character growth and development of Kirei, whose actions and insanity carries into F/SN. Watching him grow from someone who doesnt know what life gaia wants from him, he eventually reaches a conclusion that he needs understand more after the scene at Fuyuki. To do that, he once again partakes in the 5th War in F/SN later. Reaching answers are a big mystery in the world. Look what people can do to reach it.
Character interactions and big dialouges make up the other half of this action packed(when it counted) showed. Waver and Rider's chemistry will go down in history. The uncanny good friendship between the tough Conqueror and a bullied student goes beyond a Master-Servant relationship. Who can possibly hate Lancer or Kariya? Who can ever forget how grand and impactful the conversation between the 3 Kings were? That sky battle with Lancelot? Gilgamesh's absolute dominance in F/SN was not too flashy here, as he stood and fought like a true king with others. Way to go, King of Heroes.
Yet, none of these enjoyable 25 episodes would have been possible without ufotable and the production staff. The unrivalled drawings and music, played along with awesome animations when it mattered made this show a true blockbuster in my opinion. Music by Kajiura Yuki-sama is 100% flawless with the pieces behind each situation, be it the fights or the intense suspense. OP and ED tracks were of course lovely till no ends. ufotable took a major step forward as a leading animator with this series, having only produced longer OVAs and other films. And of course, the producers and directors and the many background staff. Most of all, thank you Urobochi Gen-san for this great novel.
Yet, in spite of its greatness as a series, I must admit the break between the first cour and second cour was a big letdown. I believed if it had continued to build its godly popularity back then, this show would have no doubt leaving its title as one of the best shows in the decade. It is still one of the best to me though. I will say the break did shimmer my interest a lot, as I have already read the novels even before episode 1 aired. The middle parts of the second cour did not bring enough punch, as story temporarily lost its focus and tried to portray the characters in another light. And that complain of the repeat scene in the Saber and Lancelot fight will never ever be forgotten or forgiven by fans worldwide.
In the end, this is one of the best series in recent years. Whatever crap thrown at me or thrown at the show (if any), this show has gone beyond levels of what anime and enjoyment would mean. This show will remain one of the most talked shows in years to come, with its place amongst the greats firmly cemented. Watch if you have not. Be awed.
I thank you ufotable; I thank you production staff, seiyuus, singers and anyone who contributed in any way or another no matter how small or big the contribution was; I thank you Urobochi Gen-san; I thank you Type-Moon. Thank you for delivering something so enjoyable and a firm-hold conversation topic in the anime world for years to come.
Its been a long ride. Thank you.
Shine